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Quick answer: Glass-lined (vitreous enamel) tanks are cheaper but rely on a sacrificial anode that needs checking every few years. Stainless steel tanks cost more upfront but need no anode and less maintenance.
When you’re replacing a storage hot water system, there’s a choice most people don’t know they’re making: what the tank itself is made of. Nearly every storage tank in Australia is either glass-lined steel (vitreous enamel) or stainless steel. They heat water the same way. The difference is how they age.
Glass-lined (vitreous enamel) tanks
A steel tank with a glass coating fused to the inside. The coating protects the steel, but it’s never perfect. There are always tiny gaps, so these tanks have a sacrificial anode, a rod that corrodes instead of the tank.
- Cheaper to buy. Most of the market is glass-lined.
- Needs anode checks. The anode should be checked every few years and replaced when it’s worn out. Once it’s gone, the tank starts rusting from the inside.
- Heavier, which can make installation harder in tight spots.
Most glass-lined tanks I replace failed early because nobody ever checked the anode. That’s not the tank’s fault, but it’s the reality in most homes.
Stainless steel tanks
Made from a corrosion-resistant grade of stainless steel, so there’s no lining to fail and no anode to replace.
- Less maintenance. No anode replacements.
- Handles Sydney’s chlorinated mains water well.
- Lighter, so it’s easier to get into awkward spots.
- Costs more upfront.
Which should you get?
If you want the cheapest option today and you’ll actually get the anode serviced, a glass-lined tank is fine. If you want to install it and not think about it for a long time, stainless steel is usually worth the extra. Warranties differ by brand and model, so compare them before you buy. I’m happy to talk you through the ones I install.
Replacing a hot water system in Ryde, Epping, Eastwood or nearby? Call me on 0451 001 503.
Quick questions
It should be checked every few years and replaced when worn. How fast it wears depends on your water and the tank.
If you want low maintenance and plan to stay in the home, it is usually worth the extra cost.
